Testimonials

July 2008:

We live in California, but having family in the Madison area brings us there several times a year. We distinctly remember our first visit to Lousianne's several years ago. It was so enjoyable that we vowed to come back. Now, an evening at Louisianne's is always on our agenda each time we visit Wisconsin. The food, the service, the ambience - it's all superb! 

Valita & Bob Cavanaugh

Placentia, California

Apr. 2008:

This restaurant is that good. Were it located in the Chicago area, it would be a hands-down "Check Please!" favorite. As it is, I have to travel from Elgin, Illinois to enjoy dining at Louisinne's. I have and will again. Not only is the food really good, but the staff make the whole dining experience in that cozy cellar most enjoyable.

Apr. 2008

Saturday 4-13-08 was my first visit to Louisanne's but not my last...we arrived 10 minutes late and the staff was amazing, and accommodating. The Piano music was right on, a toe tapping hip shaking 3 piece band. We enjoys appetizers at the lounge area may I recommend the Oysters Louisanne in my opinion the best starter on the menu.  For dinner I enjoyed the blacked tenderloin, mouth watering and satisfying, I really can't wait to try it again. There were four of us, all ordering different main dishes and each one was better than the next. The place seats maybe 40, but just the right size the interior was like an old wine cellar and lovely. I did not see a handicap entrance and the stairs were a bit steep but it was so good that if I had to be carried down there I would take on the assistance.

A real GEM !!!!

Jan. 2008:

This restaurant isn't technically in Madison, but is well worth the 15 minute drive from downtown. I was in town with my wife at a conference, and asked the concierge what he recommends. He said "Louisianne's in Middleton, but you should call ahead." We called (on a Friday) and they were booked until 9. We made reservations for the next night though...

Arriving at 7 on Saturday, we were greeted with lively jazz music and a pleasant hostess. We were immediately seated, and our server was with us shortly after that offering to take our drink order. Not pushy - just happy to help us. My wine selection was difficult due to the size of the list - exceptional! However, my wife's cosmopolitan was definitely on the stronger side. We made the "mistake" of ordering appetizers, a combination platter for 2. I say "mistake" not because the food wasn't incredible, but because the entrees were so plentiful!

For dinner, we each ordered the soup to start. Spicy, creamy, seafood chowder hit the spot on a cold day. My wife ordered the gumbo, and the spice was too much for her. I was happy to finish it up.

When my tenderloin cordon bleu arrived, I found that I didn't really need a steak knife. Tender, moist, and over a sauce I still dream about, it was exactly what I had hoped for. The side of mashed potatoes were simply too much, although they were quite tasty. My wife ordered the seafood special, and I have never tasted flavors that complimented each other so well. Rosemary, mint, and a host of other very slightly spicy seasonings with crab, shrimp, and scallops pleased the palate wonderfully. It made me wish I liked seafood more - the sauce itself was amazing.

After barely finishing our meal, the server offered desserts, and we opted for peanut butter pie to go. We should have ordered two!

The next time I'm in Madison (or Middleton) I will be sure to make a reservation long in advance. This was an excellent dining experience, and my only complaint is that my wife's drink was far to strong, and that the restaurant allows smoking in it's bar. Hence, we scooted out as soon as the tab was paid.

Jeffrey – Chicago, IL.

NOTE: Louisianne’s is now smoke free!

Dec. 2007:

One of my favorite dining experiences in the Madison area. The underground atmosphere at Louisianne's is quaint yet not unsophisticated; we went on the eve of a snowstorm, so the pianist didn't make it in to play--though I'm sure he would have made a nice dinnertime addition.

Service was friendly and efficient. Our lemon artichoke appetizer was excellent--akin to bruschetta, but minus the tomatoes and plus pine nuts and a decadent lemon-y parmesan topping. For an entree, I ordered the blackened catfish with spinach mashed potatoes, and wasn't disappointed... though I will say my fish was seasoned on the heavy side. I didn't mind the additional kick, but you may want to let the staff know if you don't like the sensation of blackened fire-breathing between bites.

I was also pleased with the wine selection. And really, how can you go wrong with the chocolate creme brulee for dessert? Thanks, Louisianne's, for a warm, inviting dinner--and for heating me up with enough cajun spice to temporarily make me forget how blustery it is outdoors!

Marissa - Royal Oak, MI

5 star rating